Echoes from the Shore: Small Islands Steering Climate Justice
Abstract
Small islands are some of the most vulnerable to climate change and this has made them become some of the most prominent leaders in the fight against climate change. These islands are at the frontline of climate change experiencing threats of life extinction due to sea level rise, extreme weather conditions, and pollution among others which have adopted strategic adaptation measures that can be of significance to the global society. Some of these efforts include in the sphere of sustainable agriculture, the use of renewable energy sources and the provision of efficient and superior systems of water management, which, in addition to combating current effects of climate change, also offer examples to other areas of the world that are struggling with similar issues. Small Island states have also been active in the international climate policy where they have used the alliance of small island states AOSIS to demand for more aggressive climate change targets and adequate funding. Their contribution to the making of such agreements as the Paris Agreement explains their concern with resilience of the climate as well as justice. Thus, small islands never cease to demand accountability from large nations regarding their commitments and increased support to climate change mitigation and adaptation, which can be seen as their leadership and commitment to the climate change cause. The need for assistance to small islands is not limited to receiving help; it includes acknowledging their leadership in addressing climate change’s impacts and promoting togetherness. The current endeavours of climate action show that climate actors are persistent and creative, indicating that there is hope for other climate undertakings in the future. It is possible to improve the global cooperation in the sphere of climate change and the subsequent positive impacts on the identified countries through active participation in and support of activities that build resilience against climate change.
Keywords: Shore, Small Islands, Climate Justice, leadership, Paris Agreement
